Testimonials

The most wonderful thing about making a quilt for a client is the collaboration. I’ve been honored that my clients so often feel the same way:

“After learning of my partner, Alistair’s death and returning back to Tasmania – I had been in the UK visiting family – I came across Lori’s name & her beautiful creations on a blog that I was following. For over a year I followed Lori on Facebook and dipped into her website from time to time.
When you lose a loved one, there are so many things you have to deal with. One of the most heartbreaking things is trying to decide what to do with all of their belongings – even the most ordinary things take on huge sentimental value and moving things on becomes quite an ordeal.
I had already sorted out things I definitely wanted to keep but had a wardrobe of shirts that I’d held onto. When I saw a new post outlining the process Lori had gone through to make another one of her stunning memorial quilts, I thought, ‘Right, let’s do it!’
I had told a friend what I was thinking of doing, and she wondered whether it would be easier to find someone who lived locally? There probably were local quilters, but Lori’s designs captivated me. The care and thoughtfulness with which she approached her work and the people she was creating pieces for, really impressed me. I somehow knew instinctively that she was the right person to entrust with this very special task. I’m so very glad that I put my trust in her.
About six months ago I wrote to Lori, told her a little about Alistair and his amazing life and our relationship and asked if she’d consider making a quilt for me. I was thrilled when she accepted my request.
Working with Lori from start to finish was so easy. We corresponded by email, and we shared ideas. Lori always checked that I was happy with what she was going to be doing, and she updated me regularly on how things were progressing.
Yesterday I received the quilt. It is beautiful. Every piece of material, so lovingly and exquisitely sewn together, every inch of the quilt holds so much meaning, so many memories of the wonderful man Alistair was and the life I had with him.
Thank you, Lori.”

“Working with you on my quilt project was a real pleasure. You are an artist with a wonderful combination of traits: marvelous creativity coupled with a command of technical skills and patience. I much appreciated your thoughtful preliminary work to explore and develop my initial concept. You were easy to work with. You knew I wanted to have my ideas heard in the design of the quilt and you were a cheerful and positive collaborator. I think we created a beautiful and unique work of art. Many thanks!”

“My mom passed a year ago. It was the most devastating thing on our family. I had heard someone mention the idea of making quilts out of her clothing. I didn’t know how I felt about the idea for several months. My best friend’s mom, who is a quilter, sent me Lori’s Instagram page and website. Honestly when I started to look at her work, it was an absolute yes that we needed to do this. Lori is the most intentional, kind, thoughtful and gifted person. I am so glad we chose her to do this extremely sacred and special project with us. I whole heartedly trust her. We sent all of my mom’s clothing to her and she knew exactly how to piece it all together to create the most exquisite and incredibly stunning quilts for everyone in my family. They are such a treasure to all of us. We are so thrilled and happy with how they all turned out! I would, and will, recommend everyone I know to do this. It was such a healing process and we received the final quilts right before the year anniversary of my mom’s passing. It was perfect timing to wrap the quilts around our aching hearts. I truly don’t think anyone would have put any more love, thought, time, respect, and talent into this wonderful project. And with all that said, she was really quite fast and efficient! Lori was so great to talk back and forth with and to work on the designs with.”

“When I found out that I was going to lose my mare Arty, in order to cope I started giving her things away. But there was one item I could not part with, a blanket given to me shortly after I got her. The blanket did not fit properly but even still, I always brought it out to get her warm and dry. I knew I wanted to turn the blanket into something special when I did a Google Search and found Lori Mason Design. I read a blog post Lori did called “From Horse Blankets to Human Blankets” – fleece coolers from different competitions used to create a quilt. I knew this was exactly what I needed. After losing a beloved companion, I was not in a great place, but Lori guided me through the process. Her compassion and drive for the project was so touching. When the quilt arrived, I was speechless. All of the emotions with losing Arty, the pain and the relief that she was no longer suffering came rushing back. The quilt was perfect and has not left my side since her blanket came home.”

“Lori was a dream to work with. I discovered Lori and the memorial quilts she makes while they were on display at our Art Center here in The Dalles. I went to her artist talk and knew this is something I wanted to do with my wife’s clothing.
I talked with Lori about this prospect. We arranged for me to meet her here in The Dalles when she took her show down and bring Bonnie’s clothes to be used for the throw. What I appreciate about Lori is how she listened to me as I talked about our love and our relationship. The quilted throw Lori made includes that which we talked about regarding Bonnie, myself, and our love.
I feel blessed to have this beautiful throw, made with Bonnie’s clothes to wrap myself up in, and I know she is still with me! Thanks so much Lori!!”

“My mother, Olivia, passed away unexpectedly on August 18, 2022. She was almost 81 years old and she lived a long and good life. But as her daughter, I was heartbroken, and I knew that things would never go back to “normal”. One thing that made me feel better was asking Lori to make a quilt from my mom’s collection of colorful t-shirts. As soon as we spoke on the phone, I knew I had found the right person to help me celebrate my mother’s life. Lori took the time to learn about my mom by asking thoughtful questions and truly listening to my answers. Plus, she was always very professional regarding the more technical aspects of the process, sending me regular updates and consulting me at every step. I especially appreciated how attentive she was to my special requests. When the quilt arrived, it brought tears to my eyes, but this time, they were happy tears. Olivia’s Library reflects my mother’s career as a librarian as well as her love of books and vibrant colors. It is now on my bed, and brings me joy and comfort, especially in the evening when I often need it the most. I will always be grateful to Lori for helping me celebrate my mom’s life in such a meaningful way.”

“Our son Sam died of cancer at age 33 eight years ago. We kept the clothes that we did not give away, without a particular plan. A great new friend entered our lives who is a passionate quilter. I asked her about whether Sam’s pants could be made into a quilt. I had a vague notion of trying to do it myself (NOT! I haven’t even had a sewing machine for 20 years…). My friend Sheryl came to look at the clothes I had, coached me how to cut them up, but most importantly, found Lori’s website. Lori’s designs and sentiments on the website are welcoming and genuine. She was so responsive, warm and generous, and her talent and creativity are truly superb. The two quilts she made are going to our grandsons, one of whom is named for Sam. One of Sam’s distinctions was his taste in brightly colored pants, and it is a joy to remember him/them in her beautiful work. We will be forever grateful for her gift.”

“Lori’s work is incredible!! It was a delight to collaborate with her on the three quilts she made from my mother’s clothes. My mother passed away suddenly 3 ½ years ago. I have known Lori for a long time, and knew soon after my mother died that I wanted to commission her to make memorial quilts for myself, my sister, and my father. It took me several years after my mom died before I had enough head space in my grief to approach this project. I’m so glad that I did. Lori took the time for me to share a bit about my mother, and deeply listened to what my vision was for the quilts. The three quilts she created are exquisite! It is immensely meaningful for me to have a tangible memento of my dear mother. Lori is professional, extremely talented, compassionate, and a joy to work with. I HIGHLY recommend her!”

“Lori made three quilts for me out of my husband’s clothes (one for me, one for my daughter and my son). Jason passed away in 2019. His clothes have been the hardest item of his to part with. Simply touching or looking at his clothes is difficult. Lori made the process very easy as she was thoughtful and kind. Upfront, she asked about Jason so she could try and incorporate his personality into our quilts. She also asked questions about my kids. During the process, Lori provided updates on the quilts and sent me pictures. We recently received our quilts and they are beautiful. All three of us feel as if we have a piece of Jason with us forever. Lori is very talented and did an amazing job!”

“When my husband died relatively young, I knew immediately that I wanted a part of him to stay around, and thought of memory/memorial quilts. One of my quilter friends shared an interview with Lori Mason, and I really liked her philosophy and description of how she approached it, and I also really liked the images of her finished works. When I reached out, she responded promptly and collaboratively, and we had a great conversation about what things were important to my husband and my image of him, and also what clothing/cloth items were available and how they could be used, and this communication and collaboration was consistent throughout. She was transparent about the timeline and costs, and the result is so beautiful and I am torn between wrapping myself in it (flannel backed) and hanging it on the wall as art!”

“I’ve been fortunate to have known Lori for decades and have seen the passion and talent she has in designing and making memorial quilts. When my husband passed away suddenly, I knew I wanted Lori to make quilts for the family. Lori and I talked about him, who he was, his family history, and the design came together perfectly. In fact, the inspiration was hanging on the studio wall, Lori’s earlier rendition of the Cameron tartan. She was able to make five beautiful quilts, each unique in their fabrics but with a common thread throughout, reflecting the family history and relationships. The workmanship is so beautiful and precise, incorporating so many different fabrics – ties, pants, business shirts, casual shirts, even boxer shorts. I am so grateful that I can wrap myself up in this beautiful quilt and think of Charlie.”

“When my grandmother died in 2000, my mother had a glorious quilt created for me using Grandma’s most iconic outfits. Because of that, a memorial quilt was front-of-mind when my mom was diagnosed with a terminal illness. My girls’ Grandma Kat was deeply cherished by us all but had a particular connection with her grandchildren and it felt wrong that someone so gifted in relating to kids should miss out on their growing up. I found solace in the idea that they would have something of hers to hold close and bring with them into adulthood. I knew Lori through her collaboration with a close friend, so I was at her door with a suitcase full of fabric in short order, including clothing that my girls chose for themselves on the very day of Kat’s death. Lori’s workmanship was surpassed only by her compassion. I know firsthand that she can be trusted completely with our grief, the story of our loved ones, and these irreplaceable materials.”

“My pops passed away unexpectedly on June 29, 2020. He was a dedicated servant to all, joining the Marine Corps right out of high school and serving in the Vietnam War. Once home, he enrolled in the police academy and became a Salinas Police officer. He served for 32 years, primarily as a detective. Within 24 hours of retiring from the police force, he was working for the City of Salinas, where he served as mayor for nearly 8 years. He had over 50 years of community service. I wasn’t sure what to do with the clothing items I was left with. I began to research ideas for quilts and Lori Mason Design popped up. There aren’t any words to put together to explain how beautiful and heart warming these beautiful pieces of art are. These are the most amazing pieces I have ever seen. Each one is unique in its very own special way, just like pops was when he wore these garments. We can see him, hear him, and just catch the sparkle in his eyes as he would spot us in the crowd while doing his thing! Each one of these quilts is incredibly beautiful! Thank you for sharing your gift with our family and allowing us to have that special vision of him every time we see our pillows and quilts! We love them Lori, and you have given us a piece of him to hold onto everyday.”

“As a therapist specializing in grief and loss, I have referred many clients to Lori over the years to have memorial quilts made, and all had a wonderful experience. When I lost my own spouse of 18 years unexpectedly at age 48, I did not hesitate to refer myself. For my 15-year old son and me, working with Lori on the quilts has been a meaningful part of our grief process – choosing the clothing and patterns, sharing some of Tom’s story, visiting her studio to see the quilts in process, and finally receiving the beautiful finished products and sharing photos with family and friends. I cannot recommend Lori, her work, and her kind and gentle spirit, highly enough.”

“My son loved quilts from an early age. So much, that I saved clothes throughout his life, planning to make a quilt as a high school graduation gift. No part of the plan included his death on February 2019 at age 16. Reaching out to Lori was riddled with sadness and wondering. Will this person get the story I want to create of my son? Lori exceeded any expectation I held. She openly listened to the stories of my son, asked questions and created a design that captured my son’s essence. The quilt speaks to my son’s beauty, kindness, creativity and gracious heart. As I have shared the quilt with others, the consistent comment received is how it feels like Ethan. I couldn’t agree more!”

“My father passed away from cancer on July 5, 2019. I was very close with my father, therefore this was of course a devastating experience for my family and me. We discovered Lori’s work online, and we were immediately drawn to her style and charisma. Working with Lori on a Memorial Quilt and Table Runner was nothing short of a dream – I stress the cooperative nature of this product as I was utterly stunned by how professional and caring Lori was throughout. Not only was the final product beautiful and of the highest caliber – Lori took the time to understand who my father was and made us feel like an integral part of the process. The finished products truly capture the essence of who my father was in life (Biker, Fisherman, Craft Beer Brewer, Traveler). My mother and I couldn’t be more pleased!!”

“Working with Lori was a wonderful experience on many levels. Her elegant design and careful craftsmanship would be enough to recommend her, but her skills go far beyond that. Lori has a keen sense of empathy; she listens not only for your words, but for the inner truth of things. She somehow manifested my parents’ story in a physical object that bears witness to their life and their legacy. Working with her on the memorial quilt was healing–it took my understanding and appreciation of my parents to a new level. She gracefully accommodated my wish to be part of the creative process, and it was easy to work with her with long distance.”

“Lori was so wonderful to work with! We discussed memories of my mom and things she enjoyed in her life which Lori was then able to incorporate into the design of the quilt. Not only did we receive a beautifully made quilt to cherish, but it brought great comfort and happiness to our family during such a difficult time. I would highly recommend Lori Mason to anyone looking for a way to memorialize a lost loved one.”

“When Tony died I knew that I wanted to do something special with his clothing. A friend suggested a quilt, and I began my research. Nothing seemed right – until I found Lori’s site. Her work is truly stunning. The quilts and pillows that she created for me are artistically beautiful works of art, yet still manage to capture the warmth and lighthearted spirit of my beloved husband and friend. They are now my treasured heirlooms.”

“The whole process of having this quilt made has been really helpful for me while grieving. I loved how Lori spent time getting to know me and my late husband, John, and that she gave me updates and asked me questions throughout. I feel that the quilt has been a collaboration between Lori, me, and John- it’s wonderful to feel his presence through it. I am blown away with how Lori has turned John’s painting into a new work of art that is beautiful and comforting to have around. She has a fantastic skill and imagination in how to make the fabrics work together, as well as in working sensitively with people.”

“Lori, we just opened the quilts today, and I’m going to tell you, none of us have stopped crying yet. They are the most incredible, beautiful quilts. My sister and I opened the box – I didn’t dare to do it by myself, and we were just in tears. I can’t say enough about how grateful I am for this beautiful work – it’s just bringing him to life. I’m so appreciative of having him right around me now, it’s really a wonderful gift. Thank you.”

“I’m so happy I picked Lori to make my family’s quilts. I found Lori’s website while looking for memorial quilts and I am so happy I did. She’s a very talented woman and feels the love in your loved one’s clothing. Lori stays in touch with you when she is making your quilts and sends little, in-process photos of the quilt, which made our day. I asked Lori to make nine quilts out of my husband’s clothes, and I also asked her to take the patches and embroidered name tags from his work shirts and somehow put them in the quilts. She did, and they turned out ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! Her work is flawless. She loves what she does, and we love our quilts.”

“Lori spent time talking with me about my son… who he was, his interests and passions. This is a difficult conversation when your only child has died, but Lori was empathetic and very sensitive to my grief. After collaborating on the design she sent a photo of the first piece of the quilt. Even having seen that small piece I was overwhelmed when I received the finished quilt. It is amazing! It is beautiful on both sides… the attention to detail (the tiny lion and elephant at the centre… perfect) and the aesthetic harmony of the whole is absolutely wonderful. Not surprisingly, a flood of tears was unleashed as I unfolded it. I want to thank Lori so very much for listening to me, for taking the time to get to know Colin, and for creating something so beautiful that evokes his passions so perfectly.”

“It takes an exceptional person to support a total stranger who has just lost a child. Lori Mason is that person. Her kindness and genuine caring as she guided me through the telling of my son’s story was remarkable. That process resulted in a set of quilts for my family that embody my son’s spirit and reflect our family relationships. Lori is an artist and these stunning works she fashioned will be treasured not just for the fond memories they evoke but for their beauty.”